The Modern Guide to Fine China

Does anyone even use fine china anymore? We all seem to stick to our casual ceramic dinnerware these days. But, a case can be made for a finer set of china, and we're here to make it. Made of bone china or porcelain, elegant tableware is the center of any table setting, adds high style to your home, and is an investment you can pass down to future generations. Also, fine china's high-quality materials make them sturdy enough to use every day -- and they can even be put in the dishwasher. Here are a few guidelines to registering, inheriting, or buying china:

Although a basic white china is a safe bet, there is such a plethora of patterns to choose from you are sure to find one that suits your personality. The four main categories are floral, geometric, banded, and oriental. Modern designers have reinterpreted classic patterns in new ways, such as Calamityware's oriental pattern with its surprise robot attack, Kelly Wearstler's abstract floral, and Jeff Koons's totally wacky figurative prints for a Bernardaud.

When it comes to quantity, experts recommend buying eight to twelve place settings. But, the only expert we really trust is Nora Ephron, who wrote the line in Sleepless in Seattle; "eight is too few, twelve is too many." If it works for Meg Ryan, it works for us. A true formal setting will include five pieces: a dinner plate, salad/dessert plate, bread plate, teacup, and saucer.

To complete your collection of china, add serving pieces like serving platters, a gravy boat, a cream and sugar set, a teapot, soup bowls, and/or chargers (large plates used in lieu of placemats). These items will give your table a complete look. Also, just like with your china, you can mix and match your patterns if you prefer a less uniform aesthetic.